Calling all platelet donors! Now’s your chance to step up to the plate and help save lives. 

The Pitching for Platelets experience presented in partnership with the Cincinnati Reds returns in 2026, bringing even more excitement for our dedicated platelet donors. This exclusive opportunity is reserved for loyal Hoxworth platelet donors and offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance to shine on the Major League stage at Great American Ball Park.

This Spring, donate platelets 4 or more times April, May, and June and earn an invitation for you and a guest to VIP Reds experience on July 31, 2026.

Donate 4 times:

• 2 FREE tickets for you and a guest to the July 31, 2026 Cincinnati Reds game + post-game LIVE concert with Marshmello.
• Pre-game group photo with Buddy
• 2 unopened game day water bottles
• Special PA announcement recognizing the incredible impact our platelet donors make
• A collectible Hoxworth Pitching for Platelets 2026 lanyard pin
• Earn a Hoxworth digital badge in your donor portal

Donate 5 times to unlock additional perks:

Donate platelets 5 or more times and you’ll be entered into a drawing for the chance to throw the ceremonial first pitch at a Cincinnati Reds game! The winner will also receive two additional admission tickets, and can also bring a guest onto the field to be their catcher for this unforgettable moment at the ballpark.

• A platelet donor can give every 14 days. The automated process separates the platelets from your red cells and plasma - returning your red cells and most plasma back to the donor.
• Platelets only have a shelf life of 5-7 days, meaning they are transfused for a local patient almost immediately after each donation.
• Platelets are essential for preventing excessive bleeding in patients undergoing cancer treatment, surgery, organ transplants, and those with blood disorders.
• Hoxworth needs at least 50 platelet donors each day to meet the demand of local hospitals.

A typical platelet donation takes roughly 90 minutes from start to finish and platelet donors are eligible to give every two weeks. Platelet appointments are available seven days a week at Hoxworth’s seven Neighborhood Donor Centers located in Anderson, Blue Ash, Clifton (Central), Ft. Mitchell KY, West Chester (North), Tri-County, and Western Hills (West).

We can’t wait to see you there—schedule all 4 or more donations today!

• Featured on the left: Jim Ruschman, 2024 Pitching for Platelets Winner
• Featured in the middle: Steve Meyers, 2023 Pitching for Platelets Winner
• Featured on the right: Barb Hallinan, 2022 Pitching for Platelets Winner